Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

This site contains two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Mauna Loa (4,170 metres high) and Kilauea (1,250 metres high), both of which tower over the Pacific Ocean. Volcanic eruptions have created a constantly changing landscape and the lava flows reveal surprising geological formations. Rare birds and indigenous species can be found, as well as forests of giant ferns. In the foreground of this computer generated representation is the largest and most southern island, Hawaii, dominated by the mighty ridge of Mauna Loa, an active volcano with numerous lava streams on its flanks. The island’s huge foundation, built up by the volcano over more than 800,000 years, is visible below the sea surface. Including the huge submarine base of Hawaii, measuring Mauna Kea from tip to toe would yield 9,700 metres, making it the highest mountain on Earth.

The image was taken in 2000 by the satellite Landsat-7 / ETM+. It has a resolution of 30 metres.